Katrina Cardiff – Physiotherapist | Montréal, QC

Katrina Cardiff is a dedicated Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus). Practicing at CUSM DE LYMPHOEDEME in Montréal, QC, Katrina is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ) standards. Her approach emphasizes tailored, evidence-based interventions designed to optimize recovery and enhance athletic performance, helping active individuals regain function and achieve their goals efficiently.

Specializing in neurological rehabilitation, Katrina assists individuals in recovering function, improving mobility, managing symptoms, and enhancing quality of life after neurological events or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis, or Parkinson's Disease. She also addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, from acute injuries like sprains and strains to chronic pain, arthritis, and comprehensive post-operative recovery. Her focus is on empowering patients through active participation and strategic rehabilitation plans tailored to performance and athletic needs.

With a solid foundation in physiotherapy, Katrina Cardiff completed her degree in Physiotherapy and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. She is committed to ongoing professional development, integrating the latest research and techniques into her practice. Katrina has developed expertise in neurological physiotherapy and musculoskeletal care, ensuring her patients receive comprehensive and effective treatment tailored to their unique performance and recovery objectives.

Katrina Cardiff provides skilled physiotherapy care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Peripheral Nerve

• Nerve Entrapments / Compressions (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Sciatica, Meralgia Paresthetica): Physiotherapy for common nerve compression syndromes, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist), Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck/shoulder), Sciatica (low back/buttock), or Meralgia Paresthetica (outer thigh). Treatment often includes manual therapy, nerve gliding exercises (neural mobilization), postural correction, ergonomic advice, and activity modification.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-Induced, Idiopathic): Physiotherapy focuses on improving balance, strength, sensation (where possible), reducing fall risk, managing pain, and providing education on foot care (especially for diabetic neuropathy) and adaptive strategies.

Concussion

• Concussion / Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) & Post-Concussion Syndrome: A brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, resulting in a range of symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, cognitive difficulties (e.g., 'brain fog', memory issues), fatigue, and emotional changes. Post-Concussion Syndrome refers to symptoms persisting beyond the typical recovery window.

Post Surgical

• Post-Fracture Fixation Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., ORIF): Physiotherapy aimed at restoring movement, strength, and function after surgical repair of broken bones (e.g., Open Reduction Internal Fixation - ORIF, intramedullary nailing), once the fracture site is sufficiently healed and cleared for rehabilitation by your surgeon.
• Post-Shoulder Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Rotator Cuff Repair, Labral Repair, Stabilization, Replacement): Comprehensive shoulder rehabilitation after surgical intervention, following surgeon-specific protocols, to ensure optimal healing, manage pain and swelling, and restore your arm's functional capacity.
• Post-ACL or Other Knee Ligament Reconstruction Rehabilitation: A structured, progressive, and goal-oriented physiotherapy rehabilitation program crucial for restoring knee stability, strength, range of motion, and proprioception (joint position sense) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or other knee ligament (e.g., PCL, MCL, LCL) reconstructive surgery.
• Post-Spinal Surgery Rehabilitation (e.g., Discectomy, Laminectomy, Fusion - with surgeon clearance): Supportive physiotherapy to aid your recovery and help you manage symptoms after back or neck surgery, focusing on education, safe movement strategies, and specific exercises.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Katrina can assess your needs.

• Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) for Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Disorders: Specialized assessment and treatment techniques, such as canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo - BPPV), to address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo (spinning sensations), and imbalance caused by inner ear or central vestibular system dysfunction.
• Strength & Conditioning for Rehabilitation and Performance: Targeted exercises using resistance (such as bodyweight, resistance bands, free weights, or gym equipment) to build muscle strength, power, and endurance, tailored to your specific rehabilitation needs or performance goals.
• General Reconditioning & Fitness Programs: Comprehensive exercise plans developed by your Physiotherapist to combat deconditioning, enhance overall physical well-being, and promote an active lifestyle.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized programs incorporating various stretching techniques (e.g., static, dynamic, PNF) to alleviate stiffness, increase tissue extensibility, and promote better posture.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Training: Targeted exercises focused on strengthening the deep abdominal, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm muscles to provide better support for your spine, improve posture, enhance balance, and increase movement efficiency.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Evidence-based exercise programs designed by your physiotherapist, including instruction and progression, to optimize your recovery and enhance your physical well-being.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Katrina. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

At CUSM DE LYMPHOEDEME, physiotherapy is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Katrina frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• It's truly rewarding for Katrina to witness patients conquer my infant having a tilted head or a flat spot on their head (torticollis/plagiocephaly) and experience successfully avoiding or delaying the need for more invasive treatments or surgery. A tailored approach to physiotherapy, focusing on your specific needs, can make a significant difference in your ability to participate in returning to a specific physical hobby you had to give up due to pain again.
• Katrina frequently assists patients in overcoming the effects of feeling like my posture is hunched or rounded, causing discomfort. A carefully designed physiotherapy program, potentially including specialized manual techniques and progressive exercises, targets implementing practical strategies to avoid re-injury during work or daily life and supports your enthusiastic engagement in desired activities like dressing myself independently and without difficulty, including shoes and socks.
• Are you finding that difficulty coordinating my movements, feeling clumsy stops you from enjoying engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting hobbies for hours? Katrina is dedicated to helping patients like you achieve a greater sense of body confidence and trust in their physical abilities through a hands-on, active approach to physiotherapy.

Your personalized physiotherapy plan, developed with Katrina, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Katrina practices at CUSM DE LYMPHOEDEME, situated within a central Montréal neighborhood. The clinic is part of a modern, accessible outpatient facility located conveniently near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for active individuals to access specialized neurological and musculoskeletal physiotherapy. The clinic's strategic location ensures excellent public transit options, enabling patients to reach appointments with minimal hassle. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Physiothérapeute in QC?

In Quebec, patients can typically access a Physiothérapeute (Physiothérapeute (Neurological Rehabilitation Focus)) directly without a physician's referral, a process known as direct access. While a referral is not legally required to see a physiotherapist, some private and extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. Patients are strongly advised to verify the specific requirements of their insurance plan before their first appointment to ensure coverage.

What is the difference between a Physiotherapist (Physiothérapeute) and a Physiotherapy Technologist (Technologue en physiothérapie) in Quebec?

In Quebec, a Physiothérapeute (Physiotherapist) holds a university master's degree in physiotherapy and is authorized to perform assessments, diagnose, and develop treatment plans independently. They are licensed to perform a full range of therapeutic interventions, including some restricted activities with attestations. A Technologue en physiothérapie (Physiotherapy Technologist) holds a college-level diploma and works under the supervision or treatment plan of a physiotherapist or physician. They assist with prescribed modalities, guide exercises, and monitor progress but do not independently diagnose or create treatment plans. Both professions are regulated by the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Will I be given exercises to do at home?

Absolutely! Home exercises are a vital part of your rehabilitation journey and empower you to take an active role in your recovery process. Katrina will carefully select and teach you exercises tailored to your needs, reinforcing clinic work, managing your condition, and ensuring continuous progress even outside of sessions.

Is there anything specific I should bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?

It's helpful to bring your health card, any referral letters, and relevant medical test reports (X-rays, MRIs). If you have private insurance coverage, please bring your insurance card or policy details for billing. Wearing comfortable attire that allows easy movement is recommended for assessment and treatment.

What is physiotherapy and how can it help me?

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession dedicated to improving movement, reducing pain, and enhancing overall well-being. A registered Physiothérapeute uses evidence-based techniques, including targeted exercises, manual therapy, and patient education, to treat injuries and physical impairments affecting muscles, joints, nerves, and the cardiorespiratory system. It helps reduce pain, increase mobility, recover from surgery, prevent injuries, and improve quality of life.

What are CUSM DE LYMPHOEDEME's operating hours?

The clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with some practitioners offering Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Hours may vary depending on the practitioner and day. Please call the clinic at [contact number] or visit our website for current hours and appointment availability.

Is physiotherapy covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

In Quebec, RAMQ generally does not cover physiotherapy services provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance to cover these services. Care received directly within a public hospital or CLSC may be covered under specific conditions. Patients are advised to verify their eligibility directly with RAMQ and consult their private insurance plans for coverage details.

CUSM DE LYMPHOEDEME
5252, Boulevard de Maisonneuve O, bureau 105B, Site Vendôme
Montréal, QC H4A 3S5

Phone: (514) 934-1934 | Website: https://www.mcgill.ca/lymphedema-research/lymphedema-services-offered-mcgill-university-health-centre

Katrina Cardiff is regulated by the Code des professions and Professional Integration Arrangement for physiotherapists in QC and is a member of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Registration can be verified with the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.